Revisiting the UK’s North-South Divide, 2016

This multidisciplinary conference, which is intended for researchers in the fields of British studies, geography and other social sciences (political science, sociology, economics and history), aims at analysing various changes specific to the North of Britain (regarding territory, society, culture, identity, politics, etc.).
● In the 21st century, when seeking to understand the socio-economic problems facing the regions of the North of Great Britain or the ‘Norths’ (not only the North of England but also Scotland, Wales and even Northern Ireland) and to define their relationship with the South of England (particularly London), is it still appropriate to refer to the North-South divide?
● What is the cultural, social and economic heritage of these territories?
● What is their political and economic place today?
● Is it still relevant to refer to a North-South divide in view of contemporary regional conditions and dynamics?
● To what extent have the 2008 crisis and the reforms conducted by the Cameron government affected regional balance?
● What are the perceptions and representations of identity, as well as the individual and collective experiences of the inhabitants of Northern England (‘Northerners’), in relation to London and to Scotland?
● What is the place of the North in public policy in a context of partial devolution of powers?
● Is it possible to observe the (re)emergence of a single distinct identity (or of several identities) as well as a distinct form of governance for the North of England within a post-devolution United Kingdom?
● Finally, can parallels be drawn with other European regions displaying similar divisions?

The conference sessions will take place on the 4th and 5th November at the Social Sciences and Humanities Campus of the University of Lorraine (CLSH) in Nancy. It will be followed on the 6th November by a field trip to the North of Lorraine, during which comparisons with Northern Britain will be developed.How to get to NancyHow to get to CLSH – Université de Lorraine

Registration and fees:
Fees are 50 euros for academics and 15 euros for doctoral students.
This includes registration for the conference, three lunches, a meal in a restaurant on Friday evening and the field trip.Registration webpage